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New Zealand are gearing up to welcome Pakistan for an exhilarating five-match T20I series, set to commence on January 12. The upcoming T20I leg holds immense significance for both teams as they prepare for the highly anticipated men’s ICC T20 World Cup, slated to take place in June. With the return of several key players, this series promises to be a thrilling encounter between two formidable sides.
Captains lead the charge
One of the major highlights of the series is the comeback of superstar Kane Williamson as the T20I captain for New Zealand. Williamson’s leadership and batting prowess will undoubtedly have a significant impact on the team’s performance. On the other hand, Pakistan will be led by the talented Shaheen Afridi, who is expected to bring his exceptional bowling skills to the forefront.
Historical T20I performance
When it comes to T20Is, Pakistan holds the edge over the Black Caps, with 20 victories compared to New Zealand’s 13. However, on home soil, the Kiwis have proven to be a formidable force, securing eight wins against Pakistan’s seven defeats. Notably, Pakistan’s last T20I assignment in New Zealand was the tri-series held in October 2022, which also involved Bangladesh. In a thrilling finale, Pakistan emerged victorious against New Zealand, showcasing their prowess in the shortest format of the game.
T20 World Cup preparation
As the T20 World Cup draws nearer, both teams will be aiming to fine-tune their strategies, build momentum, and identify their best combinations. The series between New Zealand and Pakistan serves as an ideal platform for players to showcase their skills, adapt to different conditions, and gain invaluable experience ahead of the global tournament.
A star-studded ensemble of players on both teams
The clash between New Zealand and Pakistan promises to be an exhilarating series with the presence of top-tier players on both sides. New Zealand’s squad showcases cricket superstars like Williamson, Glenn Phillips, Daryl Mitchell, Mitchell Santner, Lockie Ferguson, and Tim Southee. Similarly, Pakistan’s team comprises renowned names in the world of cricket, including Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, Fakhar Zaman, Shaheen, Haris Rauf, and Iftikhar Ahmed. These impressive line-ups on both sides set the stage for an enthralling battle.
Also READ: NZ vs PAK, 2024 – New Zealand’s best playing XI for the T20I series against Pakistan
Prominent statistics and notable records stemming from T20I matches involving New Zealand and Pakistan:
NZ vs PAK T20Is: Head-to-head records:
Matches: 34 | New Zealand Won: 13 | Pakistan Won: 20 | No result: 1
New Zealand’s stats and records against Pakistan:
- Highest T20I total for New Zealand against Pakistan: 196/5, Wellington 2016
- Lowest T20I total for New Zealand against Pakistan: 80 all-out, Christchurch 2010
- Most runs for New Zealand against Pakistan: Kane Williamson (584)
- Highest individual score for New Zealand against Pakistan: Mark Chapman (104*), Rawalpindi 2023
- Most wickets for New Zealand against Pakistan: Tim Southee (28 wickets)
- Best bowling figures for New Zealand against Pakistan: Tim Southee (5/18), Auckland 2010
- Most 50-plus scores for New Zealand against Pakistan: Kane Williamson (5)
Pakistan’s stats and records against New Zealand:
- Highest T20I total for Pakistan against New Zealand: 201/4, Auckland 2018
- Lowest T20I total for Pakistan against New Zealand: 101 all-out, Wellington 2016
- Most runs for Pakistan against New Zealand: Mohammed Hafeez (563)
- Highest individual score for Pakistan against New Zealand: Babar Azam (101*), Lahore 2023
- Most wickets for Pakistan against New Zealand: Haris Rauf (25 wickets)
- Best bowling figures for Pakistan against New Zealand: Umar Gul (5/6), The Oval 2009
- Most 50-plus scores for Pakistan against New Zealand: Babar Azam (5)
